It's the question we're asked most often at A-List Tutoring: "When should we start?" The honest answer is that there's no single right moment. But in our experience, a steady start in P6 works far better than a rush in P7.
Why start in P6?
The SEAG test is sat in November of P7, only a couple of months into the school year. That means most of the preparation has to happen before P7 begins. Starting in P6 gives your child time to:
- fill any gaps in Maths and English at a relaxed pace
- learn the question styles without pressure
- build confidence before the papers get harder
Children who start early also tend to feel calmer, because the test feels familiar long before the day arrives.
A simple term-by-term plan
P6, autumn and spring: build the foundations
Focus on the basics: times tables, fractions, decimals and percentages, spelling rules, punctuation and reading widely. Short, regular sessions (20–30 minutes a few times a week) work better than long ones.
P6, summer term: learn the format
Introduce SEAG-style questions. Start with SEAG's free official practice papers, then use easier practice papers so your child learns the layout without feeling overwhelmed.
Summer holidays before P7: steady practice
Keep things light but regular. A practice paper a week, plus some reading, keeps skills fresh without spoiling the holidays.
P7, September to November: timed papers
Now move to full papers under timed conditions: 60 minutes, just like the real thing. Go through every mistake afterwards, as that's where most of the learning happens. A mock test in a real exam setting can help with nerves.
Signs your child may need extra help
- They run out of time on practice papers
- The same mistakes keep coming up in punctuation or spelling
- Maths word problems cause panic
- They're losing confidence or getting upset about the test
If you notice these, a small-group class or a few one-to-one sessions can make a real difference.
Keep it balanced
Your child is still a child. Rest, play and sleep matter. Preparation should build confidence, not anxiety.
How A-List Tutoring can help
- Weekly P6 and P7 SEAG classes in small groups at 272 Castlereagh Road, Belfast
- SEAG-style practice papers, starting at Level 1 for P6
- English and Maths revision books and flash cards to learn each topic step by step
A-List Tutoring is an independent tutoring centre. Our materials are not produced or endorsed by SEAG.